This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
Kenya's rugby team is gearing up for the Africa men's Olympic sevens qualifier in Johannesburg, where the winner will earn automatic qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The qualifier, scheduled for November 8-9, will feature 14 teams, including Africa champions Zimbabwe.
Kenya's squad is a blend of youth and experience, led by captain Andrew Amonde, assisted by Jeff Oluoch and Jacob Ojee.
Notably, Billy Odhiambo, a speedster from Mwamba Rugby Club, has been included in the squad despite declining to take up a new contract last season and failing to make the Kenya Shujaa and Kenya Morans teams for Safari Sevens.
According to Kenya Sevens coach Paul Feeney, Odhiambo was back from an injury and his fitness levels were still down, but he has been looking sharp and impressive.
Feeney expressed confidence in the team's ability to qualify, citing six weeks of great training where senior and junior players have supported each other well.
The squad includes:
- Andrew Amonde (Captain)
- William Ambaka
- Alvin Otieno
- Bush Mwale
- Vincent Onyala
- Daniel Taabu
- Johnstone Olindi
- Oscar Dennis
- Billy Odhiambo
- Nelson Oyoo
- Jeffrey Oluoch (Vice Captain)
- Jacob Ojee (Vice Captain)
Additional reporting by AFP.
